Atlético Madrid starting XI to face Arsenal today in the Champions League semifinal: “We have a clear idea”

“We have a clear idea. We’ll try to convey it in the best possible way,” Diego Simeone said in the press conference ahead of Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. Another game of the year for the red-and-whites. The coach was working to finalize his lineup, though he was considering sticking with the same XI that earned a 1–1 draw in the first leg. One doubt remained over Marcos Llorente and his position on the field. Another concerned Julián Alvarez’s ankle. There was some optimism though.

Who’s missing for Atlético Madrid?

The only absentees are Barrios and Nico González, both injured. Giménez returns to the squad after a month out, although he is not expected to start. Four players from Atlético Madrileño also traveled: Esquivel, Boñar, Julio Díaz, and Iker Luque.

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With those options and a 25-man squad, the expectation was a repeat of the lineup from six days ago. That would mean Jan Oblak in goal for another big night for the Slovenian. In front of him, the center-backs should be Pubill and Hancko, with Llorente and Ruggeri as full-backs. However, there is a possible variation, with Le Normand coming into the side as he did in the second half of the first leg, moving Pubill out wide and pushing Llorente further forward.

In midfield, Koke and Cardoso are set to dictate play, unless Simeone decides to bring Marcos Llorente into that area for one of them. The right flank would go to Giuliano Simeone, provided he has recovered from his physical issues, while Lookman is expected to start on the left, facing a test in London.

Up front, Julián Alvarez tested his ankle yesterday and all signs suggest he will be fit to start, alongside Antoine Griezmann, who brings both calm and belief. For the second half, Simeone has options in reserve: Sorloth (“hugely important, we need him”), Baena, the powerful Nahuel, promising youngsters Vargas and Mendoza, and Almada.

Confirmed Atlético Madrid team for Arsenal 2nd leg

Oblak, Pubill, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri, Giuliano Simeone, Llorente, Koke, Lookman, Griezmann, Alvarez.

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